Elder Nominations
Moving forward as a church.
As a young church plant, Trinity finds itself at a significant junction where we are, again, taking intentional steps in becoming a healthy and self-sustaining congregation. While we will always be tethered to other like-minded congregations, both inside our denomination as well as outside, the step of becoming a self-sustaining and self-governing “particular church” is both thrilling and momentous.
The step of becoming a self-sustaining and self-governing ‘particular church’ is both thrilling and momentous.
It’s thrilling because becoming a self-sustaining church will only enhance our ability to do gospel ministry in our neighborhoods and city. And it’s momentous because wise spiritual leadership is critical to this next phase in Trinity’s lifecycle. In order for us to move forward as a church, our denomination requires we nominate, train, and elect elders, faithful men who will serve alongside the pastoral staff in equipping our congregation to live out the values of Jesus and his church in our city.
If you are a member of Trinity (or our mother church Redeemer San Diego), you are encouraged to prayerfully consider nominating someone as an elder candidate. Below you will find a short list of FAQ’s as well as a longer and detailed explanation of the biblical office of elder. You will also find a link for you to submit your elder nomination(s). Please email jeff@trinitysd.org with any questions.
FAQs
+ What is an Elder?
The office of elder is one of spiritual leadership and responsibility. Elders are called and charged by Jesus, through the Spirit and the election of the church to exercise their leadership by teaching, managing and shepherding the people of God.
+ Where does the Bible talk about church leadership and elders?
The best place to begin is within the Pauline epistles of 1 Timothy and Titus, specifically 1 Timothy 3:2-7 and Titus 1:7-9.
+ What are the qualifications of an elder?
In order for a man to serve in the office of an elder, he must meet the biblical qualifications for the office with regard to his character, availability, and sense of call. All possible elder candidates must be members of Trinity or our mother church, Redeemer San Diego. (See longer attachment for a detailed explanation of these qualifications.)
+ Why is the office of elder only open to men?
Trinity, alongside our denomination the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), affirms the importance, dignity, and value of women in the world and in the church. Both women and men image their God, and, therefore, are worthy of respect and equal treatment. At Trinity we strive to remain biblically informed rather than simply culturally relevant. To that end, we believe that God has given men and women different yet complementary roles within the church, and, that these God-appointed differences in role are for sacrificial service and not the accruing of self-serving power. And while, biblically, the office of elder is open only to men, it is our conviction at Trinity that we will continue to empower and maximize the gifts and leadership of women, believing their voices are an essential part of a healthy leadership team. Click here for more information.
+ What is the process for nomination as an elder?
First: Nomination by two or more members of different households.
Second: Interview and evaluation by Trinity’s Leadership Team.
Third: Training in theology, leadership, and shepherding.
Fourth: Examination in theological/biblical competency and church governance.
Fifth: Election by Trinity members. (See longer attachment for a detailed explanation of the process.)
+ How long does an elder serve for?
At Trinity elders will be elected to serve within two consecutive 2-year terms. Evaluation of personal circumstances and continued availability is encouraged between each term.
Elder Character Description
Click here for a detailed explanation for the office of elder.